Aurangzeb Pushes Simplified Tax Procedures to Bring More Retailers Into Tax Net
Finance minister reviews registration and tax compliance as government seeks to expand the formal tax base
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb reviews progress on the Retailers’ Tax Scheme
ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has called for simpler tax procedures to help retailers register and meet their tax obligations under the government’s Retailers’ Tax Scheme.
During a review meeting on Friday, the minister discussed progress on registrations, tax returns and measures to bring more retailers into the formal tax system.
State Minister for Finance Bilal Azhar and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial also attended the meeting.
Government Reviews Retailers’ Tax Scheme
According to an official announcement, the meeting reviewed implementation progress and steps to improve compliance. However, the response from traders has remained below expectations.
Aurangzeb said the scheme offers retailers a simplified route into the formal tax system. He stressed the need to assess practical experience and resolve operational issues.
The meeting also examined registration figures, tax returns and applicable payment requirements. Officials discussed ways to make compliance easier for existing taxpayers and newly registered businesses.
FBR to Identify Unregistered Retailers
The meeting considered ways to identify unregistered retailers through available data and relevant identification records.
The FBR briefed participants on data validation and the need to ensure that registration records accurately reflect the businesses concerned.
Aurangzeb called for a balanced approach. He said the government should facilitate taxpayers while taking targeted action based on documented information.
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Retailers’ Tax Scheme to Continue Beyond 2026
Aurangzeb stressed that the scheme should not be treated as a temporary arrangement limited to 2026.
Instead, he said, it should provide small retailers with a straightforward way to enter and remain in the formal tax system over the long term.
The government aims to broaden the tax base by encouraging compliance and reducing barriers to registration. The meeting focused on improving implementation while helping retailers understand and fulfil their responsibilities.
